In Memory of Verl “Dean” Frink

Verl “Dean” Frink, a beloved brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2025, in Westcliffe, Colorado, at the age of 77. Born on April 27, 1947, in Nige­ria, Africa to missionary parents, Dean grew up in an envi­ronment of adventure and a dedication to service.

Dean’s career spanned the breadth of the continental United States. It included honorable service in the Coast Guard, a vigilant role in security, and a commitment to pro­tecting others as a firefighter for the Veterans Administra­tion. Dean retired to the serene town of Westcliffe. It was his younger brother Paul who had convinced him to choose this tranquil setting for his retirement years, a decision that brought him much joy and contentment.

After moving to Westcliffe, Dean chose to deliver papers as a retirement activity and a way to get to know the people of Westcliffe better. He enjoyed the drives with the beautiful scenery and the interactions with the people on his route. Though Dean was a transplant to Westcliffe, he took special pride in identifying as a Westcliffe resident. He knew all the “happenings,” celebrations, and history of Westcliffe. For many years, (and to the delight of his family in New York State) Dean had the local newspaper, the Wet Mountain Tri­bune, sent to them just so they could share his appreciation for “all things Westcliffe.”

Dean had a particular love for reading that included everything from historical novels to textbooks. But his greatest love was people.

Dean was a friendly, cheerful soul who relished a good conversation. Dean loved to share stories with anyone he met, and he considered everyone his friend. Dean took pride in remembering special dates and events in his family and friends’ lives – birthdays, anniversaries, a wedding or the birth of a child. Sharing in others’ joys and sorrows truly enriched Dean’s life.

Dean is survived by his brother, David Frink and his wife Debra; his sister, Marjorie Grout and her husband Richard; and numerous nieces and nephews. Dean was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Paul Frink who was a fellow resident of Westcliffe.

Dean will be laid to rest with his parents in upstate New York, where family and friends will gather to honor his life. Dean’s humble, generous spirit will be remembered by all those he touched.

There will be a memorial service on Monday, March 24, starting at 4 p.m. The service will be held at the West Custer County Library Community Room located on Main Stree of Westcliffe 209 Main St, Westcliffe.